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Post Completion OPT and STEM OPT

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a benefit for F-1 students that allows for temporary employment directly related to their major field of study. It provides valuable hands-on experience in the United States.

There are two types of OPT:

  • Pre-Completion OPT – May be used during your program of study after completing at least one full academic year.

  • Post-Completion OPT – Begins after you complete your program and also requires at least one full academic year of enrollment.

As an F-1 student, you may apply for up to 12 months of Post-Completion OPT. This benefit is granted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) — not by the Immigration & International Support Services (IISS) office.

Applying for Post-Completion OPT

OPT Application Process

  1. Complete Online Workshop
    Completion Post-Completion OPT Workshop by logging into IISS Portal and looking under (3) Student Documents and Requests.

  2. Submit a Request to IISS
    Log in to the ISSS Portal and submit an OPT - Optional Practical Training request. Once approved, you will receive a new I-20 with the OPT recommendation and instructions for submitting your application to USCIS.

  3. Submit Your Application to USCIS
    Following instructions received with new I-20, file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization online with USCIS. Be sure to include all required documents, including your new OPT-recommended I-20. USCIS must receive your application within 30 days of the OPT recommendation date listed on your I-20.

Notes about filing OPT 

  • The application fee is $470.00.
  • Processing time is typically 90–120 days.
  • You cannot begin employment until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the "OPT Card."

  • Working before receiving your EAD is a violation of F-1 status and may result in the termination of your SEVIS record.

For more information, please visit OPT – Study in the States and attend an IISS workshop offered during the fall and spring semesters.

Reporting Requirements for OPT

Once you receive your EAD card, you must:

  1. Submit the EAD Report online via IISS Portal (as an MCPHS alumni).

  2. Report your OPT employment using the OPT Employment Update form via IISS Portal.

    • Submit this only after you have accepted a position.

    • You are required to report employment updates within 10 days of starting a new position or leaving an existing one.

Maintaining your F-1 status during OPT depends on meeting these reporting requirements.

STEM OPT Extension (24-Month Extension)

You may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension if you:

  • Are currently on Post-Completion OPT.

  • Have earned a qualifying STEM degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate).

  • Submit your STEM OPT application within 90 days before your current OPT end date.

  • Your degree's CIP code (found in the “Program Information” section of your I-20) must appear on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.

Reporting Requirements for STEM OPT

Even after your STEM OPT application is approved, you must:

  • Submit an updated EAD Report with your new STEM OPT EAD card.

  • Report your employment through the STEM Validation Report every 6 months, even if there are no changes.

  • Submit a new or updated Form I-983 in the following cases:

    • Every 12 months (annual self-evaluation).

    • When changing employers (including a final evaluation for the previous employer and a new Form I-983 for the new employer).

    • For any material changes to your training plan (such as job title, responsibilities, or location).

Additional Reminders for STEM OPT

  • Employers must report if an F-1 student leaves their position within 5 days of the student’s departure.

  • F-1 students must update:

    • Any change of address.

    • Any change in employment or training plan (via Form I-983).

    • All updates must be submitted within 10 days of the change.

Need Help?

If you have questions about OPT or STEM OPT, please contact the IISS team at
📧 internationalservices@mcphs.edu
Or visit us during walk-in hours or schedule an appointment with your International Student Advisor.